How to become a home inspector in Kentucky
Kentucky home inspectors are licensed by the Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors (Kentucky Real Estate Authority, Public Protection Cabinet). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed home inspector in Kentucky, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a home inspector in Kentucky?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a board-approved 64-hour prelicensing course
- Pass a board-approved exam
- General liability insurance of at least $250,000
- State and FBI criminal background checks
Kentucky home inspector license requirements
| State license | Yes. Kentucky requires a home inspector license from the Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors (KRS 198B.700-198B.738). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors (Kentucky Real Estate Authority, Public Protection Cabinet) |
| License name | Home Inspector License |
| Education or training | A board-approved prelicensing course of at least 64 hours, including 16 hours of field training, plus 3 unpaid supervised home inspections and an exit exam (831 KAR 2:040). |
| Exam | Pass a board-approved exam (the board links the National Home Inspector Examination); a passing score is valid for three years. |
| Insurance or bond | General liability coverage of at least $250,000 from an insurer authorized in Kentucky, with the board listed as certificate holder (KRS 198B.712). |
| License term | Renew by the last day of the licensee's renewal month; the renewal fee is $200 for each year of licensure. |
| Continuing education | 14 hours per license year (28 hours per biennial period for even-year renewals) from board-approved courses. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license application | $250 |
|---|---|
| Renewal, per year of licensure | $200 |
| Late renewal fee | $250 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a home inspector in Kentucky
- Complete a board-approved 64-hour prelicensing course with 3 supervised inspections
- Pass the board-approved exam
- Obtain $250,000 general liability insurance
- Get Kentucky State Police and FBI background checks (within 90 days)
- Submit form KBHI-1 with photo, certificates and $250 fee
- Renew with CE, insurance proof, a recent inspection report and a state background check
Apply on the official Kentucky site
How do you check a home inspector's license in Kentucky?
- Search the name or license number on the official Kentucky home inspector license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.